T2 Chip and Silicon Imaging Challenges: How to Overcome Them
The Apple T2 chip and Apple Silicon (M1, M2, and newer chips) have revolutionized the way we think about security and performance. These chips integrate a variety of functions, including secure boot processes, encryption, and advanced file system structures like APFS snapshots. While these technologies offer robust security, they also present significant challenges for forensic investigators, especially in the area of physical forensic imaging.
Why Traditional Imaging Methods Are Ineffective
Forensic investigators typically rely on traditional imaging methods, such as DD and E01, to create forensic images of storage devices. However, these methods are ineffective for machines powered by the T2 chip or Apple Silicon.
The reason is simple: the data on these devices is encrypted at the hardware level. Even if an investigator were able to create a DD or E01 image of a device, the data would still be encrypted, rendering the image ineffective for forensic analysis. The physical storage blocks on these devices are always encrypted, making it challenging for examiners to access the data.
How to Overcome Challenges with the T2 Chip and Silicon Imaging
To create a usable, decrypted forensic image from an Apple T2 chip or Apple Silicon device, the encrypted APFS container blocks must be decrypted. This decryption process must occur on the same machine from which the device is booted, utilizing the macOS environment. Only then will the examiner be able to access a decrypted and usable physical image.
One of the most effective solutions for this issue is NBFTools NETRE, a powerful forensic imager designed specifically for macOS. NETRE enables investigators to create a physical, decrypted image of machines equipped with the Apple T2 chip and Apple Silicon, effectively addressing the challenges posed by encryption.
Creating Decrypted Images with NBFTools NETRE
Using NBFTools NETRE’s bootable environment, forensic examiners can extract a fully decrypted physical image of a device.
NETRE’s direct interaction with the APFS file system allows it to capture all critical data in its decrypted form. Key features of the process include:
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Decrypted APFS Container Blocks: NETRE captures the physical blocks of the APFS container in their decrypted form, allowing for easy access to the data.
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Important Volumes for Analysis: NETRE also extracts critical volumes, including the ‘Data’ volume. This volume contains the majority of user-generated data and application files and is the primary area forensic examiners focus on during an investigation.
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Captures APFS Snapshots: Physical decrypted image created by NETRE also includes APFS Snapshots and other APFS objects and metadata.
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Analyzing the Data
The forensic images created by NETRE are easily mountable on Apple macOS without third party supporting tools. Below is the screenshot how you can see mounted image with APFS snapshots list.
However, if you’re looking for analysis supporting tools, NBFTools also provides TRIOS based on Apple native technology.
Once a decrypted image is created, it can be analyzed using NBFTools TRIOS, a powerful forensic analysis tool. TRIOS enables investigators to conduct a detailed examination of the extracted volumes. The primary volume to focus on is the ‘Data’ volume, which contains the majority of user data, including documents, photos, and application files. By analyzing this volume, forensic investigators can recover critical evidence for their investigations.
While the T2 chip and Apple Silicon provide exceptional security, they also present significant challenges for forensic investigators who rely on traditional imaging methods. However, with specialized tools like NBFTools NETRE, investigators can overcome these challenges and create physical, decrypted images of Apple devices. This ensures that crucial data remains accessible for forensic analysis, supporting investigations and legal proceedings.
By utilizing NETRE from NBFTools suite, forensic professionals can stay ahead of the curve, ensuring they can still gather valuable evidence from devices with advanced security features like the T2 chip and Apple Silicon.
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